On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Thursday (October 1, 2026) appealed to the people of Tamil Nadu to purchase khadi clothes and products made in villages to help improve the livelihoods of spinners, weavers, and artisans.

In a statement, Mr. Vijay said the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi reminded everyone of the history of India’s freedom struggle, as well as simplicity, self-reliance, and the spirit of humanity that embraces everyone. Mahatma Gandhi, who wielded non-violence as a weapon, taught every Indian the importance of economic freedom and self-reliance through the spinning wheel, he said.

“When we purchase a khadi garment, it is a recognition of a weaver’s skill. When we purchase a village product, it is a mark of respect for an artisan’s labour. When we use a locally manufactured product, it encourages the productive capacity of our land,” he said.

Considering the increasing global demand for environmentally friendly clothing made using natural fibres, the Tamil Nadu Khadi and Village Industries Board is combining tradition with modernity and improving access to khadi and village industry products for everyone through new designs and e-commerce platforms.

Through khadi outlets across Tamil Nadu, khadi cotton, polyester and silk varieties are being made available to the public throughout the year at a 30% discount, Mr. Vijay said, appealing to school and college students, government employees, private-sector employees, and youngsters to make use of this opportunity and purchase khadi clothing and village products.